BTS members RM and Jung Kook to release feature-length documentaries
A cinematic journey with RM: Right People, Wrong Place
RM, the charismatic leader of BTS, is set to captivate audiences with his upcoming documentary, RM: Right People, Wrong Place. Directed by Lee Seok-joon and distributed by CJ 4DPLEX, this film will make its grand debut at the Busan International Film Festival in October.
The documentary delves into the creation of RM’s second solo album, Right Place, Wrong Person, released in May. It promises to be a profound exploration of RM’s artistic journey, blending the persona of BTS’ leader, the solo artist, and the individual, Kim Namjoon. The film’s aesthetic is expected to mirror the visually stunning cinematography seen in RM’s music videos, offering viewers an experience akin to watching an art film.
Director Lee Seok-joon, known for his work on BTS’ J-Hope’s music videos for Arson and MORE, brings his unique vision to this project. The film will have an open-air screening at the Busan International Film Festival, running from October 2-11, in a venue large enough to accommodate the anticipated crowds.
Seo Kye-won, GM of HYBE Media Studio, expressed the significance of this event, stating, “It is very meaningful that RM: Right People, Wrong Place will be the first K-pop documentary film to be screened outdoors at the Busan International Film Festival.”
For more details, check out the RM: Right People, Wrong Place trailer.
Jung Kook: I Am Still – A solo artist’s odyssey
Jung Kook, another prominent BTS member, is also set to release his documentary, Jung Kook: I Am Still. This feature chronicles his eight-month journey following his historic solo debut with Seven (feat. Latto) in July 2023. Specialist event distributor Trafalgar Releasing will launch the film on September 18, with screenings in 120 countries.
Ahead of the release, a clip from the film has been shared, and the companies have announced digital surprises for fans. These will be accessible through a QR code at the end of the feature presentation, offering a new video clip each week, starting September 18.
Jung Kook has made a significant impact as a solo artist. His singles, 3D (feat. Jack Harlow) and Standing Next to You, have both achieved top 10 status, making him the first K-pop solo artist to simultaneously hold three tracks in the Billboard HOT 100’s top 10. His album, Golden, enjoyed a 24-week run on the Billboard 200.
HYBE Corp. has produced ten BTS feature films, including Jung Kook: I Am Still. These films have been popular on both specialty and general streaming platforms. Earlier this year, a streaming service announced a slate of nine BTS films and variety shows. Previously, another platform carried five BTS films. In May, a Korean joint venture company announced a deal with HYBE for BTS and Seventeen shows for their U.S.-based streamer.
Watch the Jung Kook: I Am Still clip here.
The broader impact of BTS documentaries
The release of these documentaries highlights the growing influence of BTS beyond the music industry. These films offer fans a deeper understanding of the members’ personal and artistic journeys, providing a more intimate connection with their idols. The success of BTS documentaries on various streaming platforms underscores the global demand for content that goes beyond the music, delving into the lives and creative processes of these artists.
For cinema and TV series enthusiasts, these documentaries are a testament to the power of storytelling in capturing the essence of an artist’s journey. They offer a unique blend of music, personal reflection, and visual artistry, making them a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of music and film.
Personal reflections and analysis
As a fan of both cinema and music, the release of these documentaries is particularly exciting. They represent a fusion of two art forms, offering a cinematic experience that is deeply rooted in the world of music. The visual storytelling in RM’s documentary, combined with the introspective nature of his journey, promises to be a compelling watch. Similarly, Jung Kook’s documentary offers a glimpse into the life of a solo artist navigating the challenges and triumphs of his career.
These documentaries also highlight the evolving landscape of music and film, where artists are increasingly using visual media to tell their stories. This trend is not only enriching the content available to fans but also pushing the boundaries of traditional music documentaries.
For more information on the albums and songs mentioned, you can listen to Seven (feat. Latto), 3D (feat. Jack Harlow), and Standing Next to You on Spotify.
the upcoming documentaries from RM and Jung Kook are set to offer fans an immersive and intimate look into their lives and artistic journeys. These films are a celebration of their achievements and a testament to their enduring impact on the global music scene.